DES MOINES, Iowa, June 20, 2025
Chaos at Iowa Events Center
An event at the Iowa Events Center in Des Moines was disrupted Thursday afternoon, leading to an evacuation and sparking reports of a possible shooting.
- The EMC Expo Center was evacuated during the National Speech & Debate Tournament.
- A man entered the stage area, prompting safety concerns.
- Authorities reported no injuries and no weapons found.
What happened at the Iowa Events Center in Des Moines? The Des Moines Police Department responded to a disturbance at the EMC Expo Center on Thursday afternoon during the National Speech & Debate Tournament, which led to an evacuation of the area. Law enforcement took an individual into custody.
According to a news release from the Des Moines Police Department, the incident occurred shortly before 3 p.m. when a man entered the stage area during the event. His behavior raised safety concerns, resulting in an immediate evacuation.
The individual was taken into custody. The Des Moines Police Department and the Polk County Sheriff’s Office are actively investigating the situation. Authorities confirmed that no injuries were reported and no weapons were found at the scene.
The EMC Expo Center is part of the larger Iowa Events Center complex.
Reports of a possible shooting at the venue surfaced, with witnesses on social media describing a potential active shooter situation during the tournament. Others reported a strong police presence near the nearby Wells Fargo Arena, which is next to the EMC Expo Center.
Witness Accounts
Witnesses shared their experiences online as the situation unfolded. One person wrote on Facebook, “Anyone know what’s going on at the Wells Fargo Arena?? A ton of people outside visibly upset, cops everywhere too. Roads are blocked by law enforcement and people running. Any information would be appreciated.”
Another person reported, “Active shooter in Des Moines Iowa at the Iowa event center. Prayers to everyone involved my employees are safe.” A third witness shared, “My brother in law just texted me that there is an active shooter situation in downtown Des Moines? Anyone else?”
Another witness wrote, “Stay away from arena area in downtown Des Moines. Police are investigating active shooter situation.” One person reported, “I got a message from a friend who was checking in tot the Hilton right there, saw kids running out of the building, and people on site were yelling ‘active shooter.’ Sounds like it was scary for everyone.”
